White balsamic vinegar includes a variety of products that fall into the category of balsamic vinegar, although it is less known and spread than the dark condiment. This is the most common way to describe white balsamic: similar to regular balsamic vinegar but with a light golden color and a delicious sweet-and-sour flavor. Unlike white wine vinegar, which is tart and made entirely or partly from white wine, white balsamic vinegar is made from white grape juice, which is much sweeter.
Where white balsamic vinegar comes from
White balsamic vinegar comes from the same background of regular balsamic vinegar, but it is not bound by processing methods of PGI (Protected Geographical Identification) and PDO (Protected Designation of Origin) certifications. In fact, white balsamic vinegar can be produced anywhere, whether in Italy or the rest of the world, with varying amounts of pure white grape must mixed with white wine vinegar.White balsamic vinegar is also called white balsamic dressing or condiment, to distinguish it from the authentic version of balsamic vinegar. Note, however, that this “white version” of balsamic is produced by vinegar makers who also have experience and knowledge in the field of regular balsamic vinegar. Over the years, as the market has expanded, they have launched a greater variety of products to reach more consumers around the world.
What is white balsamic made of?
As mentioned above, the production of white balsamic vinegar is not bound to any production specification, nor to any territory or raw material. The usual process involves around 70% of cooked must obtained from the soft crushing of sweet white grapes such as Trebbiano, and 30% of white wine vinegar. The blend is aged (or finished) in wooden barrels to allow it to acquire a significant level of organoleptic intensity.
Organoleptic characteristics
Depending on the producer’s recipe, the ingredients and quantities used, as well as the aging period and barrels, the organoleptic characteristics of white balsamic vinegar can vary greatly. The length of maturation may be extended up to 5 years or more. The barrels used for aging white balsamic vinegar are made of different woods,which release essences into the balsamic: oak, for example, gives white balsamic vinegar a very pronounced golden, almost amber golden hue, and ash enhances the white vinegar’s smoothness and fragrance, without altering its clear, limpid color.The taste of white balsamic vinegar is generally fruity and floral,evoking the fragrant notes of the white, sugary grapes it comes from. White balsamic vinegar is also particularly fresh and balanced due to the contrast between low acidity and sweet hints of dried fruits and citrus.Based on these sensory traits, white balsamic vinegar tastes best when paired with fish and shellfish dishes or fresh fruit salads. It is used to garnish raw or cooked vegetables, salads, and semi-aged cheeses.
What is the nutritional value of white balsamic vinegar?
White balsamic vinegar contains 0fats, both saturated and unsaturated, has a medium content of carbohydrates, most of which are sugars, and a reduced amount of protein and calories.
Flavoring and packaging
White balsamic vinegar is often spiced up with extra flavorings, as in the case of the balsamic vinegar glazes described in this section. These additions turn white balsamic vinegar into an even more unconventional and versatile condiment. Some of the added flavorings include truffle, garlic, pomegranate, saffron, lemon, ginger, chili pepper, onion, raspberry and fig. Just as production of white balsamic vinegar is not bound by any official specifications, the bottling and packaging also do not involve special containers, as long as they comply with the hygiene and safety standards and are easy to handle. White balsamic condiments are sold at both retailers and manufacturers’ e-stores or marketplaces, and are usually available in glass bottles ranging in capacity from 50 ml (1.69 fl oz) or 70 ml (2.37 fl oz) up to 500 ml (16.91 fl oz) or 1L (33.81 fl oz).
Expiry date and storage
Since time immemorial, balsamic vinegar and wine vinegar have also been used as natural preservatives for foods. This application stems from their acetic acid content that lowers the pH of food, destroys microbes and extends their shelf life. For this reason, like balsamic vinegar and wine vinegar, white balsamic vinegar does not have an expiry date, unless it is stored in a sealed, intact bottle.In order to store white balsamic vinegar well and allow its aromas to maintain and release their intensity over time, white balsamic condiment should be stored tightly sealed in its original container, in a naturally cool and dry place, away from sunlight and temperature changes.
White balsamic vinegar vs regular balsamic vinegar
Although not as popular as regular balsamic vinegar, white balsamic vinegar, or white balsamic condiment, has recently begun to carve out a growing space internationally, presenting itself as a new option to dark balsamic vinegar. White balsamic vinegar is not considered a competitor to dark balsamic vinegar; as it has very different organoleptic characteristics.